We begin with a relaxed coffee break before starting the tour.

Over coffee, I will introduce the theme of the day: what has supported the hearts of Japanese people and the people of Aomori. You will learn the basic difference between Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, and how food and festivals are deeply connected to local identity in Aomori.

Visit Seiryuji Temple, located in the peaceful countryside outside Aomori City.

Here, you will see the Showa Daibutsu, “Big Buddha”. It is the tallest bronze seated Buddha statue in Japan, standing 21 meters high. The temple grounds also include a beautiful five-storied pagoda, a dry landscape Zen garden, and wide views of rice fields and nature.

Through this visit, we will explore how Buddhism has shaped the Japanese view of life, death, silence, and prayer. The temple was built with the belief that temple buildings themselves can quietly teach people, even without words.

Visit Uto Shrine, one of the most important shrines in Aomori City and known as the spiritual guardian of the area.

This shrine has long been cherished as a place where people pray for safety, family happiness, business success, and guidance in life.

Here, we will explore how Shinto is connected to celebration, gratitude, nature, and everyday prayer. While the temple shows the Buddhist view of life and death, the shrine shows how Japanese people seek blessings, protection, and guidance in daily life.

Enjoy a fun and local lunch experience at Aomori Gyosai Center, where you can design your own seafood bowl. You will walk through the market, choose your favorite fresh sashimi and toppings, and create a fish bowl made just for you. It is a delicious way to experience Aomori’s seafood culture in a casual and interactive style.

If you do not like raw fish or seafood, we can also visit a ramen shop or another local restaurant instead.

Visit WA RASSE, a museum dedicated to the Nebuta Festival, one of Aomori’s most powerful cultural traditions.

Nebuta is not only a summer festival. It is a folk tradition, a community ritual, and a source of pride for the people of Aomori. Through the giant illuminated floats, music, and festival atmosphere, you will feel how Nebuta has supported the energy, identity, and spirit of the local people.

After exploring temples and shrines as spiritual foundations of Japan, this visit shows another kind of spiritual anchor: the festival that brings Aomori people together.

End the tour at A-FACTORY, a stylish local market near Aomori Station.

Here, you can explore Aomori’s famous apple products, cider, sweets, juice, and local souvenirs. After learning about temples, shrines, food, and Nebuta, this final stop gives you time to relax, shop, and take a piece of Aomori’s culture home with you.